Older Adults' Mobility Device Use After In-Patient Rehabilitation

Abstract

This study explored intention to use mobility devices (canes, crutches, walkers, and wheelchairs), expressed during in-patient rehabilitation, as a predictor of actual use after discharge. Additionally, appropriate and inappropriate use and discontinuation of use was determined through comparison of self-reported need to actual use of a device. A mobility device questionnaire was pilot tested with seventy-five older adults, who had received occupational and physical therapy. Subjects rated levels of intention to use mobility devices and identified reasons for continuing and discontinuing use. Use and need were determined via mail survey to examine the relationship between intention, use, and need. Results indicate that those who express intention use devices after discharge. Older adults seem to make rational judgments about device use, either continuing or discontinuing use according to perceptions of need for a device.